Bloodwing Academy #2 | 433 pages | ★★★ Stars
After finishing On Wings of Blood, I was unsure I wanted to continue, but I had enough questions to push me forward. I’m glad I did — though now I’m left with even more questions than I started with.
If On Wings of Blood left, you curious enough to continue, The Bond That Burns rewards that patience.
The world of Bloodwing Academy feels more confident here — the story hits its stride faster, and the things that made Book 1 a slow burn are less of a hurdle this time around. Medra and Blake are still not the easiest characters to root for, but with more happening around them, they’re easier to go along with, and the mysteries surrounding them finally start to feel like they’re building toward something.
The pacing is noticeably improved. Where Book 1 took its time finding its footing, Book 2 moves — and that makes a real difference. It’s the kind of sequel that makes you reassess the first book a little more kindly, knowing the groundwork was being laid for this.
And then the ending. Without spoiling anything, Boleyn lands a cliffhanger that makes Book 3 feel less like a choice and more like a necessity. Consider my reading challenge plans adjusted accordingly.
If you stalled on Book 1, it’s worth pushing through. The series is finding its feet — and I’m here for where it’s going.